Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this may appear brief, I’ve acquired valuable experiences during this period. London is a vibrant city, not only for its variety of housing options but also for its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of selections readily available. Both student residences and private lodgings offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently coordinate apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, review amenities, and evaluate distances to public transportation.
In my quest for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal commutes can cost as much as £5.25 daily. Instead of relying on the bus or tube, I chose to walk short distances. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university travels more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground, covering regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these lines differ according to distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The high living expenses in Central London are influenced by its significant attractions. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s harder to find in private residences.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on daily errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood to inhabit is quite a task. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their homeland in London. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The best locales to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, immerse yourself in the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.